Avista customers in Idaho could soon see an increase in electric and natural gas rates.
If approved by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, a settlement agreement involving Avista and other parties would result in an overall electric increase of 9.3 percent and a 2.6 percent natural gas increase, effective Oct. 1.
Partially offsetting the increases, and lowering the bill impact to customers, will be a $17.5 million credit to customers to return the balance of deferred Idaho state income taxes from prior years.
Avista spokesperson Debbie Simock says the utility also announced a Power Cost Adjustment in relation to how much it costs the utility to purchase and generate power.
Avista spokesperson Debbie Simock explains what the settlement means for Idaho customers.
Also, to help customers better manage their energy bills, annual funding for the low-income weatherization program would be increased to $700,000.
Simock comments on the increased funding for low-income customer programs.
Avista would also increase support for low-income energy efficiency outreach and education from $25,000 to $40,000. Community Action Program agencies manage both the low-income weatherization and energy efficiency and education programs.
